An apparatus suitable for detecting radiation, comprising: a radiation absorption layer comprising a semiconductor, a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, the first electrical contact positioned across the semiconductor from the second electrical contact; a DC-to-DC converter configured to apply a DC voltage between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, the DC-to-DC converter comprising micro-electromechanical switches.
Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. An apparatus suitable for detecting radiation, comprising: a radiation absorption layer comprising a semiconductor, a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, the first electrical contact positioned across the semiconductor from the second electrical contact; a DC-to-DC converter configured to apply a DC voltage between the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact, the DC-to-DC converter comprising micro-electromechanical switches; wherein the DC-to-DC converter is configured to receive a clock signal and to control the micro-electromechanical switches with the clock signal and an inversion thereof.
This invention relates to radiation detection systems, specifically apparatuses designed to detect radiation using semiconductor-based sensors. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and precise radiation detection, particularly in applications requiring high sensitivity and low power consumption. The apparatus includes a radiation absorption layer made of a semiconductor material, which generates electrical signals in response to incident radiation. Two electrical contacts are positioned on opposite sides of the semiconductor layer to collect these signals. A DC-to-DC converter is integrated into the system to apply a DC voltage across the semiconductor layer, enhancing the detection sensitivity. The converter uses micro-electromechanical (MEMS) switches to regulate the voltage, which are controlled by a clock signal and its inverted version. This design allows for precise voltage control and efficient power management, improving the overall performance of the radiation detection apparatus. The use of MEMS switches ensures reliable and low-power operation, making the system suitable for applications in medical imaging, industrial monitoring, and scientific research. The apparatus is designed to optimize radiation detection while minimizing power consumption and maintaining high accuracy.
2. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the DC-to-DC converter comprises multiple stages, wherein each of the stages comprises a capacitor and at least one of the micro-electromechanical switches.
A DC-to-DC converter system is designed to efficiently convert and regulate electrical power in electronic devices, particularly where compact size and high efficiency are critical. The system addresses challenges in traditional converters, such as power loss, size constraints, and limited efficiency in dynamic power delivery. The converter includes multiple stages, each containing a capacitor and at least one micro-electromechanical (MEMS) switch. These MEMS switches enable precise control of power flow, reducing energy loss and improving conversion efficiency. The staged architecture allows for modular and scalable power management, adapting to varying load demands. The capacitors in each stage store and release energy in a controlled manner, while the MEMS switches regulate the flow, ensuring stable output voltage and current. This design enhances performance in applications requiring high efficiency, such as portable electronics, renewable energy systems, and automotive power management. The use of MEMS switches provides faster switching speeds and lower power dissipation compared to traditional semiconductor switches, further optimizing energy conversion. The system's modularity allows for customization based on specific power requirements, making it versatile for different applications.
3. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein each of the micro-electromechanical switches comprises a cantilever beam, electrical contacts and a control electrode.
This invention relates to micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) for switching applications, specifically addressing the need for reliable, compact, and efficient switching mechanisms in electronic devices. The apparatus includes multiple micro-electromechanical switches, each comprising a cantilever beam, electrical contacts, and a control electrode. The cantilever beam is a flexible, beam-like structure that moves in response to an applied control signal, physically connecting or disconnecting the electrical contacts. The control electrode generates an electrostatic force to actuate the cantilever beam, enabling precise switching operations. The electrical contacts are positioned such that when the cantilever beam moves, it either bridges the contacts to complete a circuit or retracts to open the circuit. This design ensures low power consumption, fast switching speeds, and high reliability, making it suitable for applications in telecommunications, signal routing, and integrated circuits. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as biasing mechanisms or feedback systems, to enhance performance and stability. The invention improves upon traditional switching technologies by leveraging MEMS principles to achieve miniaturization and integration with other electronic components.
4. The apparatus of claim 3 , wherein the micro-electromechanical switches are configured to open or close by changing a voltage on the control electrode.
This invention relates to micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) and specifically to an apparatus incorporating micro-electromechanical switches that are actuated by voltage changes on a control electrode. The technology addresses the need for precise, reliable, and low-power switching mechanisms in micro-scale devices, particularly in applications where mechanical movement is required to control electrical or mechanical pathways. The apparatus includes a substrate supporting one or more micro-electromechanical switches. Each switch comprises a movable element, such as a beam or cantilever, and a control electrode. The movable element is mechanically coupled to a contact element that can engage or disengage from a stationary contact. The control electrode is positioned relative to the movable element such that applying or varying a voltage on the control electrode generates an electrostatic force. This force causes the movable element to deflect, thereby opening or closing the switch by moving the contact element into or out of contact with the stationary contact. The voltage on the control electrode can be adjusted to control the position of the movable element, allowing for precise actuation of the switch. This mechanism enables the switch to function as an electrical or mechanical relay, providing isolation or connection between circuits or mechanical components. The design ensures low power consumption, fast response times, and high reliability, making it suitable for applications in telecommunications, sensing, and micro-scale robotics. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as biasing elements or feedback mechanisms, to enhance stability and performance.
5. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the micro-electromechanical switches comprise silicon, SiO 2 , Si 3 N 4 , polysilicon, or a combination thereof.
This invention relates to micro-electromechanical (MEMS) switches used in electronic devices, particularly for high-frequency or high-power applications. MEMS switches are critical for controlling electrical signals in integrated circuits, but traditional designs often suffer from reliability issues, high power consumption, or limited material durability. The invention addresses these challenges by specifying the use of silicon (Si), silicon dioxide (SiO2), silicon nitride (Si3N4), polysilicon, or a combination of these materials in the construction of MEMS switches. These materials are chosen for their mechanical strength, electrical insulation properties, and compatibility with semiconductor fabrication processes. Silicon provides excellent conductivity and structural integrity, while SiO2 and Si3N4 offer insulation and passivation to protect against environmental degradation. Polysilicon enhances durability and precision in micro-scale switching mechanisms. The use of these materials ensures improved performance, longevity, and reliability in MEMS switches, making them suitable for demanding applications such as telecommunications, RF circuits, and high-speed data processing. The invention focuses on optimizing material selection to enhance switch functionality while maintaining compatibility with existing manufacturing techniques.
6. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the first electrical contact and the second electrical contact are configured to collect charge carriers generated by radiation particles absorbed by the radiation absorption layer.
This invention relates to a radiation detection apparatus designed to collect charge carriers generated by radiation particles. The apparatus includes a radiation absorption layer that absorbs incident radiation particles, such as photons or other high-energy particles, and generates charge carriers (e.g., electron-hole pairs) in response. The apparatus further includes a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact positioned to collect these charge carriers. The electrical contacts are configured to facilitate the separation and collection of the generated charge carriers, enabling the detection and measurement of the absorbed radiation. The apparatus may also include additional components, such as a substrate or additional layers, to enhance charge carrier collection efficiency, reduce noise, or improve overall performance. The design ensures efficient charge carrier extraction, which is critical for accurate radiation detection in applications such as medical imaging, industrial inspection, or scientific research. The apparatus may be optimized for specific radiation types or energy ranges to improve sensitivity and resolution.
7. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising: a first voltage comparator configured to compare a voltage of the second electrical contact to a first threshold; a second voltage comparator configured to compare the voltage to a second threshold; a counter configured to register a number of radiation particles absorbed by the radiation absorption layer; a controller; wherein the controller is configured to start a time delay from a time at which the first voltage comparator determines that an absolute value of the voltage equals or exceeds an absolute value of the first threshold; wherein the controller is configured to activate the second voltage comparator during the time delay; wherein the controller is configured to cause the number registered by the counter to increase by one, if the second voltage comparator determines that an absolute value of the voltage equals or exceeds an absolute value of the second threshold.
A radiation detection apparatus includes a radiation absorption layer that generates electrical signals in response to absorbed radiation particles. The apparatus monitors the voltage at a second electrical contact connected to the absorption layer. A first voltage comparator compares this voltage to a first threshold, and if the voltage meets or exceeds the threshold, a time delay is initiated. During this delay, a second voltage comparator compares the voltage to a second threshold. If the voltage also meets or exceeds this second threshold, a counter increments to register the detection of a radiation particle. The controller manages these operations, ensuring that the second comparator only activates during the predefined time delay. This system improves radiation detection accuracy by validating particle events through dual-threshold comparison within a controlled time window. The apparatus may also include a first electrical contact connected to the absorption layer, which may be part of a larger detection system. The design ensures reliable particle counting by reducing false positives through sequential voltage validation.
8. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the controller is configured to activate the second voltage comparator at a beginning or expiration of the time delay.
A system for monitoring electrical parameters in a power distribution network includes a voltage comparator circuit and a controller. The circuit compares an input voltage against a reference voltage to detect overvoltage or undervoltage conditions. The controller activates a second voltage comparator at the start or end of a predefined time delay. This second comparator may be used to verify the initial voltage measurement or to trigger additional protective actions. The system ensures accurate voltage monitoring by cross-checking readings at critical timing intervals, reducing false positives and improving reliability in power distribution applications. The time delay allows for transient voltage fluctuations to stabilize before final measurements are taken, enhancing the accuracy of fault detection. The controller dynamically adjusts comparator activation based on real-time conditions, optimizing system response to voltage anomalies. This approach improves the robustness of voltage monitoring in power grids, ensuring stable and safe operation.
9. The apparatus of claim 7 , further comprising a voltmeter, wherein the controller is configured to cause the voltmeter to measure the voltage upon expiration of the time delay.
This invention relates to an apparatus for monitoring and controlling electrical systems, particularly focusing on voltage measurement after a predefined time delay. The apparatus includes a controller that initiates a time delay upon receiving a trigger signal, such as a power-on event or a user command. After the time delay expires, the controller activates a voltmeter to measure the voltage of an electrical circuit. This measurement helps ensure that the system stabilizes before voltage readings are taken, preventing inaccurate data due to transient conditions. The apparatus may also include a power supply, a relay, and a sensor to detect system states, such as power status or environmental conditions. The controller can adjust the time delay based on sensor inputs or predefined parameters, optimizing measurement timing for different operating conditions. The voltmeter provides real-time voltage data, which can be used for diagnostics, safety monitoring, or system calibration. This invention addresses the need for reliable voltage measurements in electrical systems by ensuring measurements are taken only after the system reaches a stable state, improving accuracy and system reliability.
10. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the controller is configured to determine radiation particle energy based on a value of the voltage measured upon expiration of the time delay.
This invention relates to a radiation detection apparatus designed to measure the energy of radiation particles, such as those emitted in nuclear or particle physics experiments. The apparatus addresses the challenge of accurately determining particle energy by analyzing voltage changes induced by the particles in a detection system. The apparatus includes a sensor that generates a voltage signal in response to incident radiation particles, a controller that processes this signal, and a timing mechanism that introduces a delay before measuring the voltage. The controller is configured to calculate the particle energy based on the voltage value observed after this delay period. The apparatus may also include a signal amplifier to enhance the voltage signal before processing. The timing mechanism ensures that the voltage measurement occurs at a specific point in time, improving accuracy by accounting for transient effects. The controller's ability to derive energy from the delayed voltage measurement allows for precise energy characterization of the detected particles, which is critical in applications requiring high-resolution radiation analysis. The invention improves upon existing systems by incorporating a controlled delay and precise voltage measurement to mitigate noise and transient interference, resulting in more reliable energy determinations.
11. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein the controller is configured to connect the second electrical contact to an electric ground.
A system for managing electrical connections includes a controller that regulates the connection between electrical contacts and a power source or ground. The system addresses the need for controlled switching of electrical loads to prevent damage from overcurrent or improper grounding. The apparatus comprises a first electrical contact connected to a power source, a second electrical contact, and a controller that selectively connects the second contact to either the power source or an electric ground. The controller ensures proper sequencing of connections to avoid short circuits or voltage spikes. The system may also include a third electrical contact connected to a load, where the controller manages the connection between the second contact and the third contact to control power delivery to the load. The controller may further monitor current or voltage levels to determine when to connect or disconnect the contacts. This design improves safety and reliability in electrical systems by preventing unintended grounding or power supply connections.
12. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein a rate of change of the voltage is substantially zero at expiration of the time delay.
This invention relates to an apparatus for controlling electrical systems, particularly for managing voltage transitions in power electronics or energy storage systems. The problem addressed is ensuring smooth and stable voltage changes to prevent damage or inefficiency during operation. The apparatus includes a voltage control circuit that adjusts an output voltage over a defined time delay. The key improvement is that the rate of change of the voltage (dv/dt) is substantially zero at the end of the time delay, meaning the voltage transition completes without abrupt changes. This prevents voltage spikes or oscillations that could harm components or reduce system performance. The apparatus may include a feedback loop to monitor the voltage and adjust the control signal dynamically. The time delay is set based on system requirements, such as the desired transition speed or load conditions. The voltage control circuit may use pulse-width modulation (PWM), linear regulation, or other techniques to achieve the controlled transition. By ensuring a zero rate of change at the end of the transition, the apparatus improves reliability and efficiency in applications like motor drives, power supplies, or battery management systems. The invention is particularly useful in systems where sudden voltage changes could cause instability or damage.
13. The apparatus of claim 7 , wherein a rate of change of the voltage is substantially non-zero at expiration of the time delay.
This invention relates to an apparatus for controlling electrical systems, particularly those involving voltage regulation or switching. The problem addressed is ensuring precise timing and voltage behavior in electrical circuits, where maintaining a non-zero rate of change in voltage at the end of a predefined time delay is critical for proper operation. This is important in applications such as power electronics, motor control, or signal processing, where abrupt voltage changes can cause instability or inefficiency. The apparatus includes a voltage control system that applies a voltage to a load or circuit component. A timing mechanism enforces a time delay before the voltage is adjusted. The key feature is that the voltage's rate of change remains substantially non-zero when the time delay expires, preventing sudden voltage transitions that could disrupt system performance. This is achieved through a feedback or regulation mechanism that dynamically adjusts the voltage during the delay period, ensuring smooth transitions. The apparatus may also include a sensor to monitor voltage or current, a controller to process feedback signals, and a switching element to modify the applied voltage. The controller ensures the voltage change rate remains controlled, avoiding abrupt shifts that could damage components or degrade system efficiency. This design is particularly useful in systems requiring precise timing and stable voltage transitions, such as in power conversion, industrial automation, or renewable energy integration.
14. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprising a capacitor module electrically connected to the second electrical contact, wherein the capacitor module is configured to collect charge carriers from the second electrical contact.
This invention relates to an apparatus for managing electrical charge, particularly in systems where charge carriers need to be collected and utilized efficiently. The apparatus includes a first electrical contact and a second electrical contact, where the second electrical contact is configured to receive charge carriers from an external source. The apparatus further includes a capacitor module electrically connected to the second electrical contact, which is designed to collect and store charge carriers from the second electrical contact. The capacitor module may be used to stabilize voltage levels, store energy for later use, or provide a buffer in electrical circuits. The apparatus may be part of a larger system, such as an energy harvesting device, a power management circuit, or an electronic system requiring charge regulation. The capacitor module ensures efficient charge collection, preventing loss and improving overall system performance. The invention addresses challenges in charge management, such as transient voltage spikes, energy storage inefficiencies, and power supply fluctuations, by providing a dedicated module for charge collection and stabilization.
15. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the radiation absorption layer comprises a diode.
A radiation detection apparatus includes a radiation absorption layer configured to absorb incident radiation and generate electrical signals. The radiation absorption layer comprises a diode, which converts absorbed radiation into electrical charge. The apparatus further includes a readout circuit electrically connected to the radiation absorption layer to process the generated electrical signals. The diode in the radiation absorption layer enhances the efficiency of radiation-to-electrical signal conversion, improving sensitivity and response time. The readout circuit may include amplification and signal processing components to condition the output for further analysis. This configuration is particularly useful in imaging and sensing applications where precise detection of radiation is required, such as in medical imaging, industrial inspection, or scientific research. The diode-based absorption layer ensures high detection efficiency while maintaining low noise levels, making the apparatus suitable for high-resolution and low-dose radiation detection scenarios.
16. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the radiation absorption layer comprises silicon, germanium, GaAs, CdTe, CdZnTe, or a combination thereof.
The invention relates to an apparatus for detecting radiation, particularly in the context of imaging or sensing applications. The apparatus includes a radiation absorption layer designed to efficiently capture and convert incoming radiation into detectable signals. The radiation absorption layer is composed of materials that exhibit high sensitivity to specific types of radiation, such as X-rays, gamma rays, or other high-energy photons. The materials used in the radiation absorption layer include silicon, germanium, gallium arsenide (GaAs), cadmium telluride (CdTe), cadmium zinc telluride (CdZnTe), or a combination of these materials. These materials are selected for their superior radiation absorption properties, which enhance the detection efficiency and resolution of the apparatus. The apparatus may be part of a larger system, such as a medical imaging device, industrial inspection system, or scientific instrument, where precise radiation detection is critical. The use of these specific materials in the radiation absorption layer ensures high sensitivity, fast response times, and minimal noise, making the apparatus suitable for applications requiring high-performance radiation detection.
17. The apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the apparatus does not comprise a scintillator.
A radiation detection apparatus is designed to detect and measure ionizing radiation without relying on a scintillator. The apparatus includes a semiconductor detector configured to generate electrical signals in response to incident radiation. The semiconductor detector is coupled to signal processing circuitry that amplifies and conditions the electrical signals for analysis. The apparatus may also include a housing to shield the detector from environmental interference and a power supply to provide electrical power to the components. The absence of a scintillator simplifies the design, reduces cost, and eliminates the need for optical coupling between the scintillator and the detector. This configuration is particularly useful in applications where compact size, low power consumption, or direct semiconductor-based detection is preferred, such as in medical imaging, industrial inspection, or environmental monitoring. The apparatus may further include calibration mechanisms to ensure accurate radiation measurement and compensation for environmental factors. The semiconductor detector may be made from materials such as silicon, germanium, or cadmium zinc telluride (CZT), which provide high sensitivity and energy resolution without requiring a scintillator. The signal processing circuitry may include analog-to-digital converters (ADCs) and digital signal processors (DSPs) to convert and analyze the detected signals. The apparatus may also incorporate data transmission interfaces to relay measurement results to external systems for further processing or display.
18. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprises a GPS receiver configured to record a location of radiation detected by the apparatus.
A radiation detection apparatus includes a GPS receiver to record the geographic location where radiation is detected. The apparatus is designed to monitor and identify radiation sources, such as nuclear materials or radioactive contamination, in real-time. The GPS receiver integrates with the detection system to log precise coordinates of each detection event, enabling accurate tracking and mapping of radiation levels across a given area. This functionality supports applications in environmental monitoring, nuclear safety, and emergency response, where pinpointing radiation sources is critical. The apparatus may also include sensors to measure radiation intensity, type, and duration, along with data storage and transmission capabilities to relay findings to a central system. By combining radiation detection with geolocation, the apparatus provides a comprehensive tool for assessing and mitigating radiation risks in various settings.
19. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprises a display configured to show information of radiation detected by the apparatus.
A radiation detection apparatus includes a sensor system for detecting radiation and a display configured to show information about the detected radiation. The sensor system may include one or more detectors positioned to capture radiation from a target area, such as a patient in a medical imaging context. The display provides real-time or processed data, such as radiation intensity, distribution, or spectral information, to assist users in monitoring or analyzing the detected radiation. The apparatus may also include processing circuitry to analyze the detected radiation and generate visual representations, such as images or graphs, on the display. This allows operators to assess radiation levels, identify sources, or verify safety conditions. The display may be integrated into the apparatus or connected wirelessly, ensuring flexibility in deployment. The system is particularly useful in medical, industrial, or environmental applications where radiation monitoring is critical. By providing immediate visual feedback, the apparatus enhances situational awareness and decision-making for users.
20. The apparatus of claim 1 , further comprises a wireless transmitter configured to transmit information of radiation detected by the apparatus to a receiving device.
This invention relates to a radiation detection apparatus designed to monitor and transmit data about detected radiation. The apparatus includes a radiation sensor that detects radiation levels in the environment, such as ionizing radiation from sources like nuclear materials or medical equipment. The sensor generates signals corresponding to the detected radiation intensity, which are then processed by an internal circuit to analyze and quantify the radiation. The apparatus also includes a wireless transmitter that sends the processed radiation data to a remote receiving device, such as a monitoring station or a mobile device. This wireless transmission allows for real-time or periodic reporting of radiation levels, enabling remote monitoring and alerting. The system may also include additional features, such as data storage for logging radiation measurements over time and an interface for user interaction or configuration. The apparatus is particularly useful in environments where continuous radiation monitoring is required, such as nuclear facilities, medical settings, or industrial sites, ensuring safety by providing timely radiation exposure information to authorized personnel.
21. A system comprising the apparatus of claim 1 , wherein the system is selected from a group consisting of a radiation detection ID card, a radiation detection badge, a radiation detection pen, a piece of radiation prevention apparel, a radiation detection wristband, a radiation detection watch, a radiation detection headphone, a radiation detection cell phone accessory, and a food radiation detection apparatus, and a household radiation detector.
A system for detecting radiation integrates a portable apparatus into various form factors to monitor and alert users to radiation exposure. The apparatus includes a radiation sensor, a processor, and a communication module to detect and transmit radiation data. The system is designed as a wearable or handheld device, such as an ID card, badge, pen, wristband, watch, headphone, or cell phone accessory, as well as specialized items like radiation prevention apparel, food detection devices, or household detectors. The sensor measures radiation levels, while the processor analyzes the data and triggers alerts if thresholds are exceeded. The communication module transmits data to external devices for further analysis or logging. The system ensures real-time monitoring and protection in environments where radiation exposure is a concern, such as medical facilities, industrial settings, or emergency response scenarios. The compact and versatile design allows seamless integration into daily use, enhancing safety and awareness.
Cooperative Patent Classification codes for this invention. Click any code to explore related patents in that topic.
April 21, 2020
April 12, 2022
Browse 5M+ US patents with plain-English claim translations and AI-generated analysis.